The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned inter-city road transport operators against arbitrary fare hikes during the ongoing yuletide travel period.
The warning was made via a statement signed by FCCPC Director, Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu.
As per Ijagwu’s statement it follows an increase in consumer complaints across Nigeria in respect of widespread hike in transport fares occasioned by seasonal demand, operational pressures and other legitimate cost factors may affect transport pricing.
Quoting the commission’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, the report said government was closely monitoring market conduct throughout the festive season.
It announced that the commission has intensified engagement with transport unions, park managers and operators nationwide in order to foster responsible pricing practices, voluntary compliance and orderly market behaviour.
Ijagwu wrote that price increases are not unlawful, however, conduct that exploits consumers or takes unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand may attract regulatory attention under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
It added that practices such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercive conduct, or coordinated pricing arrangements among operators to the detriment of consumers will be subject to strict regulatory scrutiny.
“Where cases of violation are established, the FCCPC boss warned that culprits will face stiff penalties from the commission.
“As such, consumers have been advised to confirm fares before travel, retain evidence of payment, and report any suspected unfair practices to the FCCPC through its complaint portal at complaints.fccpc.gov.ng or via the hotlines 0805 600 3030 and 0805 600 2020,” the statement read in part.
